How to Select Paint for Your New House: A Simple Guide

Selecting paint for your new house is an exciting part of creating your dream home, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. With so many colors, finishes, and brands to choose from, where do you start? Here’s a practical guide to help you select the perfect paint for every room in your new home.

1. Consider the Room’s Mood and Function

Each room in your home has a different purpose, and the paint color should reflect that. Warm, neutral tones like beige and soft greys are great for living rooms, creating a welcoming, relaxing space. Bold, energetic colors such as yellows, greens, or blues work well in kitchens and dining areas. For bedrooms, calm shades like soft blues, greens, or pastel tones create a peaceful, restful environment. Bathrooms look fresh and airy with light, neutral shades or pale blues.

2. Test Paint Colors Before Committing

Paint colors can look different depending on the lighting in a room. Before making a final decision, test the color on your walls. Purchase sample sizes and apply them to a small area. Observe how the color changes with different lighting throughout the day—natural, artificial, and at night. This step will help ensure the color looks as good on your walls as it does on the swatch.

3. Choose the Right Paint Finish

The finish you choose will affect both the look and durability of your paint job. Common finishes include:

• Flat/Matte: Ideal for ceilings and walls with imperfections. It’s non-reflective and hides blemishes well.
• Eggshell: Perfect for bedrooms and living rooms. It’s easy to clean and provides a soft sheen.
• Satin: A great choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways. Satin finishes are durable, wipeable, and more resistant to stains.
• Semi-Gloss & Gloss: Best for trim, doors, and cabinetry. These finishes are durable, washable, and have a high sheen.

4. Match Your Home’s Style

Your paint color should complement the overall style of your home. Modern homes often benefit from bold, trendy colors, while traditional homes may suit more classic neutrals or pastels. Think about your furniture, flooring, and existing decor to ensure the paint enhances the overall aesthetic.

5. Go for Timeless Neutrals

While trends come and go, neutral shades like whites, greys, and beiges are timeless and adaptable. They work well in most spaces and allow you to change up the decor over time without worrying about repainting. If you love a bold color, consider using it for an accent wall or in smaller spaces like bathrooms or closets.

6. Opt for Eco-Friendly Paint

If you’re conscious of indoor air quality or the environment, consider low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints. These eco-friendly paints release fewer chemicals into the air, making them a healthier option for your family and the planet.

7. Get Professional Advice

If you’re unsure about which color or finish to choose, consider consulting with a professional painter or color expert. They can provide valuable advice based on your home’s layout, lighting, and your personal style.

Conclusion

Choosing paint for your new house is an opportunity to express your personality and create spaces that reflect your lifestyle. With the right color, finish, and a little planning, you can transform your new home into a place you love. At MRF Paints we’re here to help with expert advice and high-quality paints to make your home beautiful and long-lasting.